1. Introduction
The Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) is initiating a large-scale recruitment drive in 2025 to fill 6000 vacancies across various forest-related posts. This comes as part of the state government’s initiative to strengthen environmental conservation, wildlife protection, and reforestation projects.
2. About Karnataka Forest Department
The Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) is responsible for the management of forests and wildlife within the state. With over 38,000 sq. km of forest area, Karnataka is home to national parks, tiger reserves, and ecological hotspots. The department’s key functions include:
- Wildlife protection
- Forest conservation
- Tree plantation and afforestation
- Anti-poaching operations
- Tribal welfare in forest regions
3. Overview of the 2025 Recruitment Plan
Announcement Highlights:
- Total Vacancies: 6000
- Announced by: Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre
- Date: July 5, 2025
- Posts Already Filled: 341
- Ongoing Recruitment: 540 posts
- Pending: Remaining posts awaiting CM’s approval
This is the biggest recruitment in the history of KFD, opening vast opportunities for 10th pass, 12th pass, and graduates.
4. Post-wise Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Estimated Vacancies | Education Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Beat Forest Guard | 3500+ | 10th/12th Pass |
| Forest Watcher | 1200+ | 10th Pass |
| Range Forest Officer | 400+ | Graduate (Science/Engg) |
| Deputy Range Officer | 300+ | Graduate |
| Driver/Mechanic | 200+ | SSLC + Skill Certificate |
| Other Admin Roles | 400+ | Degree/Diploma/PUC |
5. Eligibility Criteria
A. Educational Qualification
- Forest Guard: SSLC or PUC
- Forest Watcher: Minimum SSLC
- RFO: Graduate degree in Science, Forestry, or Engineering
- Driver/Mechanic: SSLC + Technical Certificate
B. Age Limit
- General: 18 to 27 years
- SC/ST/OBC: Relaxation up to 5 years
- Ex-Servicemen: Relaxation as per rules
6. Selection Process
- Online Application
- Physical Endurance Test (PET)
- Physical Standard Test (PST)
- Written Examination
- Medical Examination
- Document Verification
- Final Merit List
7. Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Written Test
- Total Marks: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Subjects:
- General Knowledge
- Environmental Studies
- Current Affairs
- Kannada Language
- Mental Ability
8. Physical Standards and Endurance Test
For Male Candidates
- Height: 163 cm (General), 152 cm (SC/ST)
- Chest: 79-84 cm (with expansion)
- Running: 1600 meters in 7 minutes
For Female Candidates
- Height: 150 cm
- Chest: 74-79 cm
- Running: 1000 meters in 6 minutes
9. How to Apply Online
- Visit official website https://aranya.gov.in
- Click on “Recruitment 2025”
- Register with mobile/email
- Fill application form
- Upload documents
- Pay application fee
- Submit and print acknowledgment
10. Documents Required
- SSLC/PUC/Degree Certificate
- Caste Certificate
- Domicile Certificate
- Age Proof
- Medical Fitness Certificate
- Photograph & Signature
11. Application Fees
- General/OBC: ₹200
- SC/ST: ₹100
- Ex-servicemen: Exempted
12. Reservation Rules
As per Karnataka state rules:
- SC: 15%
- ST: 3%
- OBC (2A, 2B, 3A, 3B): 32%
- Women: 33% horizontal
- Ex-servicemen: 10% horizontal
13. Circle-wise Recruitment Process
Each of the 13 forest circles will conduct:
- Local language test
- Physical tests
- Medical & document checks
- Final shortlist (1:20 rule)
14. Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Date (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | August 2025 |
| Online Registration Start | August–September 2025 |
| PET/PST | Oct–Nov 2025 |
| Written Exam | Dec 2025 – Jan 2026 |
| Final Result | March 2026 |
15. Previous Year Cut-Offs
Example: Forest Watcher (Bengaluru Circle – 2023)
- General: 67
- SC: 60
- ST: 58
- OBC: 63
16. Salary and Benefits
| Post Name | Starting Salary (₹) | Allowances Included |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Guard | ₹23,500–₹47,650 | DA, HRA, Uniform |
| Forest Watcher | ₹19,950–₹37,900 | Field Allowance |
| RFO | ₹35,400–₹78,000 | Forest Risk Bonus |
Other benefits:
- Free medical
- Pension (NPS)
- Quarters in forest zones
- Leave encashment
17. Training and Posting
- Training conducted at Forest Training Centers (FTC) in Dharwad, Mysuru, and Dandeli
- Duration: 6 to 9 months
- Subjects: Wildlife law, patrolling, environment, map reading, use of GPS/drones
18. Career Growth Opportunities
| Starting Role | Promotion Path |
|---|---|
| Forest Watcher | Beat Guard → Forester → RFO → ACF → DCF |
| RFO | ACF → DCF → CCF → PCCF |
| Admin Staff | Based on service and internal exams |
19. FAQs
Q. Can I apply for multiple posts?
A. Yes, if eligible.
Q. Is Kannada mandatory?
A. Yes, knowledge of Kannada is compulsory.
Q. Is forest experience required?
A. No, training is provided after selection.
Q. Can women apply for physical roles?
A. Absolutely. 33% seats are reserved for women.
20. Final Preparation Strategy
- Daily Study Plan:
- GK: 1 hour
- Environment & Forest: 1 hour
- Kannada Grammar: 30 mins
- Mental Ability: 1 hour
- Practice physical tests in morning
- Books:
- Lucent GK
- KPSC Forest Guard Kannada Book
- Environmental Studies by NCERT
- KFD Physical Test Guide
21. Conclusion
The Karnataka Forest Department’s 6000-post recruitment in 2025 is a golden opportunity for youths seeking stable government careers with an adventurous edge. With timely preparation and awareness of the physical/written test processes, aspirants can secure a role in one of the state’s most prestigious departments.
